March 06, 2007 — John Deere has agreed to acquire Conserva Pak Seeding Systems from Vale Farms Ltd., Saskatchewan, Canada. The Conserva Pak hydraulic tyne product line will complement Deere's most recent solutions in the expanding air seeding markets around the world.

“This innovative hydraulic tyne technology from Conserva Pak will expand John Deere’s offerings in the important Australian hydraulic tyne market, while offering growers another John Deere option in precision seed and fertiliser placement.”, says Bernie Allport, Product Development Manager, John Deere Limited, Australia.  “The Conserva Pak air seeding tools, along with the new 1830 and 1835 Air Hoe Drills, and the proven 1890 and 1895 No-Till Disc Air Drills, will give John Deere Australian dealers a comprehensive and the most technologically advanced portfolio of air seeding products to meet the demanding seeding needs of Australian grain producers."

Jim Halford, P. Ag., President of Vale Farms Ltd. says, "Our Conserva Pak design has evolved over 20 years, based primarily on our experience in Australia and North America. We know that John Deere and its dealer organisation can take these designs and products to the growing number of conservation/no-till–minded farmers. This will benefit the farmers' bottom line and the environment."

The Conserva Pak hydraulic tyne technology allows for separate and precise seed and fertiliser placement to improve seed depth accuracy and to optimise plant emergence and yields. Growers will appreciate the efficiency and durability of the easily–adjustable both tyne breakout and press wheel pack featured in the Conserva Pak system that allows for no-till, low–disturbance seeding and individual seeding row packing.

To facilitate the transition of Conserva Pak products to John Deere, Vale Farms Ltd. and their current dealers will continue to market and support existing Conserva Pak branded products for the remainder of the spring 2007 seeding season. They will deliver and support all machines for use this season and provide parts and service through this transition period.

"After the winter 2007 seeding season, John Deere dealers will be the exclusive channel to support new and existing Conserva Pak products," explains Jason Brantley, Manager, Factory Marketing, John Deere Seeding Group in Moline, USA. "We'll fully integrate the hydraulic tyne products into our seeding tool line–up and ensure that existing and new Conserva Pak customers enjoy and maintain the value they have received from their Conserva Pak products."

Beginning June 2007, the new hydraulic tyne machines will be able to be ordered through the John Deere dealer network and more information on the complete product line can be found on …..www.deere.com.au or FREECALL 1800 800 981